The International Fresh Produce Association's Global Produce & Floral Show took place in Anaheim, CA, Oct. 16-18, and while the show is over the connections made and lessons learned will help power the industry moving forward. The three-day event attracted attendees from more than 50 countries, and a record number of buyers — more than 3,500 — engaged with the almost 1,100 exhibiting companies on the show floor. This year’s show had the largest representative of global retailers ever.

The International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce & Floral Show has come to an end after three transformative days for fresh produce and floral. The show attracted attendees from more than 50 countries, and a record number of more than 3,500 buyers engaged with the almost 1,100 exhibiting companies on the show floor. This year’s show had the largest representative of global retailers ever. “A heartfelt thank you to our exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, and guests for joining us in Anaheim,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. “I can't wait for Orlando in 2026!"

The International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce & Floral Show kicked off Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Anaheim Convention Center. After Cathy Burns started the day with insights on key trends, challenges and opportunities during her State of the Industry address, attendees took part in educational sessions before the afternoon’s general session. As the sun started to set industry members convened outside in the grand plaza for a jam-packed opening reception with drinks, food and friends.

It felt like summer for the Eastern Produce Council’s annual Family Apple Picking Event at Melick’s Town Farm in Oldwick, NJ, on Saturday, Sept. 27. This marked the 10th annual event, named in memory of former EPC president and director of produce merchandising and operations at Alpha 1 Marketing, the merchandising arm of Krasdale Foods. Following cider and donuts, a warm welcome by EPC Executive Director Susan McAleavey Sarlund and a few remarks by Joe DeLorenzo’s sister, Sally, about the important role family played in her brother Joe’s life, everyone dispersed for a hayride or walk up to

The Fresh Produce & Floral Council hosted its first-ever event in the Pacific Northwest at The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge in Snoqualmie, WA, bringing together retailers, growers and suppliers for an engaging day of connection and conversation. The roundtable format featured a retailer panel, grower insights and an all-attendee discussion that kept the energy high and the ideas flowing. Cat Gipe-Stewart, marketing director for Superfresh Growers in Yakima, WA, praised t he council for delivering on its reputation for top-notch networking. “It was a great way to connect with our Pacific Northwest

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — The Eastern Produce Council hosted its annual Tailgate Dinner Tuesday, Sept. 16 at MetLife Stadium, here. The event was sponsored by the Idaho Potato Commission, Shuman Farms and Oppy. This year’s featured speaker was former New York Giant Amani Toomer, one of the most productive wide receivers in team history, capturing 16 franchise records.